On April 26, the university confirmed the passing of football player Jack Murphy. The Appalachian State offensive lineman passed away on Friday, as announced by head coach Shawn Clark in a post on social media. The university released a statement expressing their condolences.
The university stated, “It is with deep sadness that we can confirm the death of Appalachian State University student John ’Jack’ Murphy on April 26. The hearts of the App State community are with Jack’s loved ones during this very difficult time. We are respecting his family’s wishes and requests and are providing support and assistance as requested.”
While the cause of death was not disclosed, the university made it clear that foul play is not suspected. Coach Clark also shared his grief on social media, calling Murphy a beloved Mountaineer and asking for thoughts and prayers for his loved ones and the App State family.
Jack Murphy was a redshirt junior who joined Appalachian State in 2023 after transferring from Marshall. He played as an offensive tackle, starting all 14 games for the team. Murphy received All-Sun Belt third team honors for his performance during the season, in which Appalachian State finished second in the Sun Belt and won the Cure Bowl against Miami (Ohio). Originally from Fairfax, Virginia, Murphy had spent three seasons at Marshall before becoming a member of the Mountaineers.